About Us

A copy of our brochure for reading or print is available here

The Friends of the Wapack (FoW) is an independent, non-profit organization composed of hikers, volunteers, supporters and landowners. The Wapack Trail has been available thanks to property owners who have permitted hikers access through their lands since the early days of the trail’s creation. As time passed the need for preserving public access and maintaining the trail prompted the formation of the Friends of the Wapack to keep it open for future generations.

Since its formation in 1980, FoW has performed major trail upgrades, a trail guide and map have been printed and a management plan has been developed. FoW encourages mutual courtesy, friendship and cooperation between hikers and landowners. Permanent protection of the Wapack is a major goal of the organization and is also coordinated with other conservation groups. Gifts of trail easements and permanent rights-of-way are being sought.

Volunteer section captains maintain specific portions of the trail. Each winter wind, snow and ice down trees. Each spring, volunteers clear sections and periodically repaint the blazes. Weekend work parties take on more difficult projects such as brush clearing, erosion control and occasional trail relocation. The FoW has also sponsored trail maintenance workshops with Trailwrights Inc., and the Appalachian Mountain Club.
The Friends of the Wapack, Inc. is recognized as a charitable corporation under Section 501(c)(3) of the US IRS code. It receives financial support primarily from members, with additional assistance from the Appalachian Mountain Club and other contributors.

Friends of the Wapack, Inc. Board Members

Section Captains

Section Captains have adopted a section of the Wapack Trail or one of the side trails maintained by the Friends. They perform much of the basic trail maintenance. Here they are, listed North to South by adopted section/trail.